A patient is diagnosed with an open compound fracture and is scheduled for immediate surgery. On which problems should the nurse focus during the patient's immediate postoperative period?
1. difficulty with mobility
2. anxiety related to the surgical procedure
3. potential for infection
4. possibility of falling
Correct Answer: 3
The patient with an open, compound fracture has multiple bone breaks penetrating through the skin, and must be assessed and cared for vigilantly for signs of infection. The patient will have difficulty with mobility and possibly fall; however, these are not the priority during the immediate postoperative period. The surgery has been completed. The risk of anxiety about the surgery should be resolved.
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